INSIGHTSSERIES
Power & Utilities | Smart Grid
November 4, 2024
Energy-Intensive Data Centers Look to Nuclear for Steady Supply of Emissions-Free Power
The steady output of nuclear power is an emerging option for technology firms to supply data centers, but co-location has raised concerns over grid reliability and cost impacts.
Co-locating energy-intensive data centers with power generation facilities is viewed as a strategic solution to access large sources of electricity without lengthy interconnection processes or extensive grid upgrades. Recently, technology firms have turned to nuclear power for…Read the full report
Key Takeaways
- FERC is examining generic issues around colocation of large loads at generating facilities as technology firms increasingly seek colocation arrangements, particularly with nuclear plants, to supply their energy-intensive data centers.
- FERC has rejected a proposal to increase colocated load capacity at Pennsylvania's Susquehanna nuclear plant to power an Amazon data center.
- The decision comes amid new deals to secure stable, carbon-free power including Google’s first-of-its-kind agreement to purchase power from a fleet of small modular reactors to be developed by Kairos Power.
